Glutathione vs NAC: The Molecule vs The Precursor
Glutathione is the "Master Antioxidant" of the human body. Every cell needs it to survive.
You can take Glutathione directly, or you can take NAC (N-Acetyl-Cysteine), which gives your liver the building blocks to make its own.
| Feature | NAC | Glutathione (Reduced) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Precursor Amino Acid | Finished Antioxidant |
| Bioavailability | High | Low (Digested easily) |
| Mucus | Breaks it down (Mucolytic) | No Effect |
| Cost | Cheap ($) | Expensive ($$$) |
Mechanisms: Making vs Taking
NAC: The Rate Limiter
Glutathione is made of three amino acids: Cysteine, Glycine, and Glutamate. Cysteine is usually the one missing (the "rate-limiting step"). NAC provides a stable form of Cysteine, allowing the liver to crank out massive amounts of Glutathione on demand.
Glutathione: The Direct Hit
Taking "Reduced L-Glutathione" orally is controversial because stomach enzymes break the peptide bond. However, newer forms like Liposomal Glutathione or S-Acetyl-Glutathione bypass digestion and work very well.
What it means
NAC gives the factory the raw materials. Liposomal Glutathione delivers the finished product.
Which One Matches Your Goal?
For Respiratory Health
Winner: NAC.
NAC has a unique benefit: it breaks disulfide bonds in mucus. If you are congested or have a cough, NAC clears your lungs while boosting immunity. Glutathione cannot do this.
For Detoxification
Winner: Liposomal Glutathione.
If you have been exposed to mold or heavy metals, you want immediate high levels. Liposomal Glutathione enters cells quickly without waiting for the liver to synthesize it.
The Verdict
Choose NAC if: You want a cheap, effective daily defense supplement that also helps with congestion.
Choose Glutathione if: You are willing to pay extra for the Liposomal form for maximum, immediate antioxidant power.